How do you FOIL # (2x + 3) (x-2)#?

1 Answer
Mar 23, 2018

#2x^2-x-6#

Explanation:

The operation is called distribution, the acrynom to remember how to multiply 2 binomials is FOIL.

It's important to understand that 'foiling' something is a misnomer and should only be used as a guide for how to perform the operation.

Recall, FOIL stands for First - Outer - Inner - Last.

Begin by multiplying the first 2 terms. #2x*x = 2x^2#

Then, multiply the outer terms. #2x*-2 = -4x# (Don't forget to take the negative that is attached to the 2).

Multiply the inner terms. #3*x = 3x#

Lastly, multiply the last terms. #3*-2=-6#

Then, write them all out in the order that you performed the operations.

#2x^2-4x+3x-6#

Then, combine like terms.

#2x^2-x-6#